On Tuesday, July 17 I participated in three seminars that were open to all Masons.

Masonry: What's in it for you.

Diversity in Masonry.

Serving in Grand Lodge.

The presenters were very informative it was apparent from the discussions that Masonry is in a period of transition within a rapidly changing world. Our values and traditions are more relevant than ever before. The challenge is now communicating them to vastly differing generations in a world where we find ourselves in competition with many other organizations.

On Tuesday night thirteen members met for dinner at the Loose Moose near the Royal York Hotel. Judging by the level of the conversation I would say that everyone had a great time. After dinner most returned to the hotel to enjoy the hospitality of the many lodges there.

On Wednesday, July 18 I attended the Grand Lodge Communication. The hall was full with many visiting officers from grand lodges across North America. I was extremely proud entering the hall with all the other serving masters as West Gate's representative.

At 5 PM the brethren of Toronto West District met and elected the DDGM for 2012-2013. I had the honour of nominating W. Bro. Warner who is a Past Master of our lodge. W. Bro. Warner declined the nomination I wish him success in future endevours. Congratulations to W. Bro. Bath who was elected to the position of DDGM for Toronto West District. Many of you will have seen him at meetings throughout the District. Last year he did a fantastic job leading the program of instruction during the Warden's Association Meetings. I look forward to supporting him during his term.

Grand Lodge will be meeting at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, Toronto next week.A general schedule is as follows Tuesday, July 17thSeminars for all Brethren 1:30 PM to 5:00 PMØ Diversity in MasonryØ Membership and MentoringØ What Works For YouØ Cornerstone ProjectØ Serving Your Grand LodgeØ Computer ResourcesAfter the seminars several West Gate members will be meeting for dinner near the Royal York. Contact me if you would like to join us.Wednesday, July 18thGrand Lodge will assemble at 8:45 AM and 1:30 PMREGISTRATION OF VOTING DELEGATES CLOSES WEDNESDAY, JULY 18th, at 3:00 p.m. SHARPAll balloting, except district elections for the office of D.D.G.M., shall be done at the time of registration in the Concert Hall. The district elections for the D.D.G.M., shall commence at 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 18th.Thursday, July 19thGrand Lodge will assemble at 8:45 AM. Installation and Investiture of Grand Lodge Officers and the newly-elected D.D.G.M.s.

Canada and Freemasonry are closely linked. We display the flag in the lodge rooms, conclude our meetings with the national anthem, toast the Queen during our banquets and most importantly are called on to reflect upon our duties and responsibilities as citizens. As Canadians and Freemasons we can be an shining example to the rest of the world. May the GAOTU continue to bless Canada, its people and Freemasonry.